Thelma Adams: The author of "Playdate" will read and sign her new novel. Book Soup, 8818 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. 7 p.m. Free. (310) 659-3110.

James Gleick: Zocalo presents a discussion and signing with the author of "The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood." Petersen Automotive Museum, 6060 Wilshire Blvd., L.A. 7:30 p.m. Free. http://www.zocalopublicsquare.org.

Susan Meiselas and William T. Vollmann: The documentary photographer, whose most recent book is "Nicaragua," will discuss her work with National Book Award-winning author Vollmann ("Europe Central"). Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles. 7 p.m. Free. (310) 443-7000.

Ted Danson: The actor will present and sign his new book, "Oceana: Our Endangered Oceans and What We Can Do to Save Them." Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., L.A. 8 p.m. Free. (310) 440-4500.

Julia Stein, Lee Boek and Lynne Bronstein: Contributors to the new anthology "Walking Through a River of Fire: 100 Years of Triangle Fire Poetry" will read their work. Skylight Books, 1818 N. Vermont Ave., L.A. 7:30 p.m. Free. (323) 660-1175.

SATURDAY

Catherine Hardwicke: The director will present and sign "Red Riding Hood: From Script to Screen," the companion book to the new film adaptation of the classic tale. Book Soup, 8818 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. 5 p.m. Free. (310) 659-3110.

Jim Miller: The author of "Niceness in the Nineties: An Indie Music Memoir" will present and sign his new book. La Luz de Jesus Gallery, 4633 Hollywood Blvd., L.A. 6 p.m. Free. (323) 666-7667.